Reflections on the Dynamics of Frequentation of an Alpine Area in the Early Middle Ages through the Study of the Metal Finds. The Site of Busa dell VetteRiflessioni sulle dinamiche di frequentazione di un settore alpino in et\ue0 altomedievale attraverso lo studio dei reperti metallici: il sito di Busa delle Vette (Sovramonte, BL, 1850 m slm)

Abstract

\ua9 2023, All\u27Insegna del Giglio s.a.s. All rights reserved.The UPLanD research project started in 2013, with the goal of investigating upland pastoral landscapes in the Eastern Dolomites. From 2014 to 2018 the project investigated human occupation of a glacial cirque at 1850 m above the sea level. The area, known as “Busa delle Vette” (Sovramonte, BL), is historically characterised by pastoral activities, as confirmed by the late-medieval dry-stone enclosures that were investigated through structural and stratigraphic analysis. The excavation of Area B, outside the enclosures, revealed a structure (interpreted as a hut) with dry-stone walls, two hearths, a small staircase, post holes and a small trench for a timber partition. Furthermore, an external rubbish dump was excavated nearby. The heap seems to have been in use during some renovation phases of the structure, which was occupied from the 5th to the 9th century AD. Despite the elevation and the difficult accessibility of the site, the material culture and food remains (animal bones, grains and legumes) are considerable. Metal objects discovered include elements of a garment (Lombard era belt parts for holding weapons, pincer fibula and tools (chain, hook, pin with a curved head). The typology of these objects is relevant for the interpretation of the function of the site and confirms the radiocarbon dates. The site reveals the political and economic role of the uplands during the Early Medieval period, which was only known through indirect sources (historic documents and archaeological data from settlements in the lowlands) or from sparse finds from other neighbouring mountain areas